Self Balancing Spoon for Parkinson’s Sufferers

Andrew Gibel, Jephte Joseph, Nick Bluvas, Gunyaz Ablay

Electrical & Computer Engineering Technology, College of Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Utica, NY, USA

Parkinson’s disease presents significant challenges to those afflicted, particularly during mealtime, where motor impairments can hinder the ability to feed oneself independently. This abstract highlights the design and development of an assistive device: a self-balancing spoon tailored to the needs of individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The spoon uses sensor technology and real-time feedback mechanisms to stabilize its orientation, mitigating the effects of tremors and involuntary movements commonly associated with the condition. Through a user-centered design approach, the spoon’s ergonomics and functionality were optimized to enhance ease of use during mealtime activities.